Choosing the right fence for your garden goes beyond marking out your space. It’s also about creating privacy, improving security, and enhancing the overall look of your outdoor area. Closeboard fencing, also known as featheredge or closeboard fencing, has become a popular choice among UK homeowners thanks to its durability and traditional style.
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What is Closeboard Fencing?
Closeboard fencing, also referred to as featheredge fencing, is a popular choice for securing and enhancing garden boundaries. Made by overlapping vertical featheredge boards (so called due to their tapered shape), the panels are fixed onto horizontal rails supported by strong timber or concrete posts. This layered construction creates a solid, heavy-duty fence that offers both privacy and protection.
Why Choose Closeboard Fence Panels?
There are several practical advantages to opting for closeboard fence panels as your garden boundary solution.
Privacy and Security
The overlapping design creates a completely solid screen, making it difficult to see through or climb. This is particularly useful in urban or high-footfall areas where privacy and security are important.
Strength and Longevity
Unlike lightweight lap panels, closeboard fencing is built to withstand the elements. The thicker boards and sturdy framework help resist strong winds and weather damage, which is especially important in exposed areas.
Easy Repairs
If a single board becomes damaged, it can often be replaced individually rather than having to remove an entire panel. This feature makes ongoing maintenance more cost-effective and less disruptive.
Timeless Aesthetic
The simple, clean lines of closeboard fencing suit a wide range of garden styles. It can be left natural, stained or painted to suit your preferences, offering design flexibility without compromising performance.
How to Install Closeboard Fencing
Installing a closeboard fence can be a rewarding DIY project, especially for those with a bit of experience in home improvement tasks. That said, for larger gardens, sloped ground, or when precision is crucial, hiring professionals may save time and ensure the best results. Below is a step-by-step overview of how to tackle this project.
1. Planning and Measuring
Begin by clearly marking out the boundary line using string and stakes. This will help you visualise the fence layout and ensure it follows your property line. Measure the full length of the area to determine how many fence panels, posts, and gravel boards you’ll need. Standard closeboard panels are typically 1.8 metres wide, so divide your total length accordingly, remembering to account for the width of posts. Don’t forget to factor in any access points like gates, and be sure to check local regulations or planning permission requirements if your fence exceeds two metres in height, especially near public pathways or neighbouring properties.
2. Digging Post Holes
Once you’ve finalised your layout, it’s time to dig the holes for your fence posts. These should be spaced at consistent intervals—typically 1.8 metres apart to correspond with panel widths. Each hole should be approximately 600mm (about two feet) deep to provide adequate support. Use a spirit level and string line to ensure the holes are aligned and that the posts will stand upright and in a straight line. If you’re working on uneven ground, you may need to adjust hole depths slightly to maintain a level fence line across the top.
3. Setting the Posts
Secure each post using a quick-set concrete mix like Postcrete or a similar product. Pour the dry mix into the hole around the post, then add water as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The mix will typically set within 10–15 minutes, allowing you to continue working without long delays. Check each post with a spirit level in both directions before the mix hardens to make sure it’s perfectly vertical. Leave the posts to fully cure before proceeding to add panels or rails, ideally waiting 24 hours for maximum stability.
4. Fixing the Panels
Once the posts are firmly in place, you can begin attaching your fence panels or constructing your closeboard structure with featheredge boards and horizontal rails. For pre-assembled panels, secure them to the posts using galvanised or stainless steel screws to resist rust and weathering. If you’re building a traditional closeboard fence from individual components, fix arris rails (horizontal support rails) between the posts first, then nail the featheredge boards vertically, overlapping each by about 25mm. Always leave a small gap—around 50mm—between the bottom of the panel or boards and the ground. This prevents the timber from sitting in moisture, which can cause rot and reduce the fence’s lifespan.
5. Finishing Touches
To give your fence a clean and durable finish, install gravel boards at the base of each panel. These timber or concrete boards act as a barrier between the soil and the fence, helping to prevent rot and water damage. Cap rails should also be added along the top edge of the fence to shed rainwater away from the boards and improve the overall look. If desired, you can paint or stain the fence at this stage to match your garden style and further protect the wood.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Results
Closeboard fencing is known for its robustness, but like all outdoor timber structures, it benefits from a little regular care to keep it looking great and functioning well. Here’s how to get the most from your investment:
Regular Inspections
Inspect your fence a few times a year, especially after periods of high winds or heavy rain. Look for loose nails or screws, warped or cracked boards, leaning posts, and signs of decay or pest damage. Early intervention—such as replacing a damaged board or reinforcing a shaky post—can prevent more extensive repairs down the line.
Apply Wood Treatment
To extend the life of your fence, apply a high-quality timber preservative or outdoor wood stain every two to three years, or as recommended by the product. These treatments protect against moisture, UV rays, fungal growth, and insect attack. Always choose products suitable for exterior use and apply them during dry weather for the best absorption and performance.
Keep It Clear
Maintain a clear area around the base of your fence to prevent moisture build-up and ensure good airflow. Avoid piling soil, mulch, or compost against the boards, and trim back any climbing plants or shrubs that could trap dampness or add weight to the structure. While ivy or roses might look charming, they can accelerate decay and make maintenance more difficult.
A Smart Choice for Your Garden Boundary
Closeboard fencing is a practical and attractive option for garden boundaries. Its sturdy construction makes it well-suited to windy or exposed areas, while its classic look complements both modern and traditional homes. With proper installation and a little care, closeboard fences can provide privacy, security, and curb appeal for many years—making them a sound investment for any homeowner.
